To Birk, or not to Birk...Birkenstock, that is!

The comfort sandal trend is still going strong after the flatforms of recent seasons past.

just an example, via barneys, thankfully (imho) sold out

^^Remember those? I couldn't understand their popularity then, and I still don't. The prospect of strapping cinder blocks to my feet doesn't sound very appealing, or maybe I'm just not very trendy/avant-garde. :)


Nowadays, comfort-chic is embodied by the current darling of the fashion set, the ever-reliable and perennially available Birkenstock.

via onlineshoes.com - metallic silver 'Arizona'

Now these may conjure up memories of summer camp counselors of elementary school days of yore, in all their granola crunchy glory, but I'm surprisingly torn. Torn between my dislike (partly on principle, and maybe I'm still traumatized by the whole flatform aesthetic), and budding appreciation of their comfort and nonchalant, carefree - dare I say it - style. The latter camp may be ever so slightly winning.

Chalk it up to a dear friend of mine who has been sporting these metallics, and who makes them look fantastic! I might be eventually become a convert after all.

Just as soon as I stop daydreaming about these beauties :)

via Bergdorf Goodman 

Dear readers: Inquiring minds want to know. Sound off in the comments - do you Birk? :)

Essentials, Part 2 (Shoes!)

**Update - As it turns out, even though I started this post last weekend at my parents' home, I'm finishing it up and posting it today from mine. And forget what I had said about end of winter - we had a nice 4 inches of snow on the first day of spring yesterday! It's melting fast though with the warmer temperature today, and honestly, it's quite beautiful and cheery. No complaints here :)


Hello again! It's a very blustery, almost-end-of-winter and almost-spring type of day today, complete with pearly gray clouds that cast a silvery glow on the outdoors scenery. I'm typing this from my parents' home, where I'm visiting for a weekend, and thought I'd take advantage of the down time to share my thoughts on shoe essentials.

Before I start though, let me put a disclosure out there that I am a girl who truly loves her shoes. I may even be obsessed - there, I've said it! Just in case I may start to sound a little crazy - at least now you'll know why, and you have been warned. :)

All kidding aside though, I really believe in the power of shoes to make or break an outfit. Visually speaking, even though shoes account for a fairly small proportion of your overall look, their impact is significant given their placement. If you think about it, looks are basically comprised of a base (top and bottom), with outer edges being the accessories that go on the head/neck, hands, and feet. These parts really stand out, so you can see their ability to really finish off a look.

This means that shoes are one part of your wardrobe where I believe one should never scrimp. Not only because of their visual power, but also because of the beating that they take. They support us the entire time they're on our feet, and there are few things worse sartorially than a pair of uncomfortable shoes. It's tempting to go for less expensive, trendy shoes that won't break the bank and to buy more of those. After all, there is a ton of variety out there, which is a big part of shoes' appeal - you can go crazy (and some designers really do, IMHO). In any case, I feel a case of 'gimme all the shoes!!' coming on :D

Rather than dropping hard-earned money on shoes that won't last beyond one season, and which are uncomfortable or poorly made, I urge you to consider building a shoe wardrobe of your essentials - the ones you can reach for over and over, that will carry you through a multitude of occasions while looking good and staying comfortable. You don't need to spend tons of money and run out to buy all the Louboutins and Choos that you see! There are lots of great, well-priced options out there that will keep you looking sharp without being too hard on your bank account.

Always keep an eye out for quality - you'll get more for your money this way. For dress shoes, good quality shoes are made of real leather (try to stay away from synthetic leathers), fit your feet well, and are comfortable from the get-go. If you can, look for shoes that have a leather sole. They'll mold to your feet, and you can extend their wear after a few seasons by having them re-soled. For any kind of shoe that you'll be wearing to withstand extreme temperatures, make sure the exterior is durable, and that the soles are sturdy and slip-proof, especially for winter boots you'll want to wear in snow, ice, and sleet.

In terms of the type of shoe - think about what you need for your lifestyle, and find suitable shoes accordingly. If you work mostly in an office environment, you may want to have a few good pairs of office-ready pumps and flats to complement you work wardrobe. If you're on your feet most of the time, comfort really is key, so steer clear of super high heels and opt for shoes with a good, gripping sole, and a cushioned footbed. Find what works best for you so you don't have to worry unnecessarily over your shoes - you want to put them on and get out there to get going!

Here is my list of shoe essentials:

1. Black pumps

I love a good pair of black pumps - they go with many different outfits and add instant polish. I had a trusty pair for several years that were my go-tos for work, interviews, conferences, you name it! They are out of commission now, but I recently replaced them with a pair of black patent leather kitten heels (pointy toe) by Via Spiga. Extremely comfortable and they look great with just about everything I've paired them against.

On the wishlist - a slightly higher heeled pair with an almond toe, and a pair of pointy-toed black suede pumps. Mmm, suede :)

2. Nude pumps

These are great for the spring and summer. My go-to is the DVF Anette pump - wonderfully cushioned and comfortable, with a sleek pointy toed shape. Best part is I got them on eBay, brand new with box, for a tiny fraction of the original price <3

On the wishlist - a pair of Christian Louboutin Simple 85's. I would not complain about having these babies on my feet, oh no! ;-)

3. Black ballet flats

The more low-key version of black pumps :) I have a classic ballerina pair and a patent pair - awesome for running around in jeans, shorts, or casual skirts and dresses.

4. Nude flats

The more low-key cousin of nude pumps - I had a great pair from Madewell that I wore to death over the past three years. Last year I found a pair of J. Crew nude Janey flats, so I'm looking forward to breaking them out this spring!

5. Colorful flats

These really are essentials for me, because I can swap out the black and nude ones for a punch of color. I went crazy for J. Crew Janeys last year - in addition to the nude pair, I also have them in jade green, cobalt blue, and persimmon. They are perfect for my feet, and the little gold heel just takes the whole thing over the top. No regrets there :)

6. Simple sandals in neutral colors

I found a great taupe pair with crystal-embellished heels on yoox.com a couple of years ago, and constantly reach for them in the summer - very comfortable and easy to pair with anything. Looking for a pair of luggage brown gladiator/thong-style sandals, maybe by K. Jacques or Ancient Greek Sandals - the artistry is beautiful on those.

7. Over the knee black leather boots

Nothing worse than cold knees in the winter! I found a wonderful pair by Pour La Victoire three years ago. They fit beautifully, are comfortable, and look sleek with everything I've paired them with. Plus, I'm always thankful for the warmth they impart. They've held up very well (I wear 1-2 times per week in the fall/winter) - the only downside is they can be a slippery since the leather soles are almost burnished with wear now. I'm thinking I'd get these resoled, keep it as a backup, and find a pair with better treads. Or just see how new rubber roles will work out! I'll keep you posted!

8. Party shoes

Oh yes..they sound impractical, but I definitely consider these a must-have. They are the gorgeous babies who will finish up your dressier outfits and complete your fantastic looks. You don't want a pair of overly plain shoes to throw off the overall look of your gorgeous cocktail dress or ballgown. I tend to gravitate towards super shiny metallics here, in a simple shape. I found a pair of beautiful gold sandals on eBay a few years ago, and always reach for those for dressy events. They add just right amount of sparkle and shine.

9. Comfy kicks

For super casual days when you just want comfort! Or for travel - who wants to stand forever in the security line struggling with complicated shoes? I dug up an old pair of black Skechers sneakers, and am wondering why I neglected them for so long. I'm loving the sporty look they add to jeans and a sweater :)

Well, there you have it, my list of shoe essentials! What do you think? Did you find this helpful? I'd love to hear your thoughts and to see what your essentials are - please feel free to share and comment, and hope you have a great weekend!

Essentials, Part 1 (Clothes)

I love poring through lists. Something wonderful and calming happens when things and ideas are corralled from the chaos of infinite possibility and organized into discrete bundles. I know that probably made me sound like a fanatic of order, which is pretty far from the truth as I enjoy variability and variation in many aspects of life. When it comes to things like clothes though, I find that the sheer amount of choice can lead to overconsumption, and ultimately frustration in - you know what I'm talking about - having absolutely nothing to wear despite piles upon piles of clothes staring at you in the face.

It's a crazy situation and feels counterintuitive, but it makes perfect sense when you realize one thing:

-We like what we like, and we wear what we like.

Think about it.

When you last stared that Goliath of clothes in its face, frantically searching for your work outfit or school outfit, or what have you, what did you end up reaching for? Chances are you went for your tried and true favorites - maybe it was that pair of trousers that made your legs look miles long and gives your butt that perfect lift, or maybe it was the trusty blouse that drapes where it needs to and holds structure where it's called for. I'm guessing you didn't go for the flashy yet fabulous sequined piece you picked up because it was on sale and so gloriously sparkly that it's really only good for a night out clubbing but what the hey, it's on sale!

Don't get me wrong - I love colors, prints, texture, and sparkle, and they have a definite and permanent place in my wardrobe. I find however, that because we have so many choices just begging to be scooped up, we tend to gravitate towards the more 'interesting' ones first, and neglect the wardrobe basics that in reality form a good 80% (give or take) of what you'll actually wear. Let this happen through enough sale cycles, and you'll find that your wardrobe is full of beautiful and interesting pieces - but with hardly a matching partner for them in sight. And that's when you end up flailing your hands up in frustration, pronouncing you have nothing to wear.

The great thing is, once you realize these patterns, you will become more conscious of your shopping choices and begin to think of your purchases as parts of an integrated whole wardrobe. Like I said before, there is room for those beautiful and unique finds, and you don't need to feel that you'll never get a chance to wear them. You can and absolutely should - it'll make you feel good to work those special pieces into your days and project a look that you're completely confident and happy to sport. You just need to make sure you have your wardrobe essentials that will 1). on their own form functional and still stylish looks; and 2). serve as building blocks, or anchors, for outfits spotlighting that fantastic fur vest or textured tweedy mini.

I won't promise that it will all come together in a snap; personal style is constantly evolving based on your lifestyle and wardrobe needs. However, there are some things that just always seem to work for you, and which you find you reach for most often. Think about your life - are you a student or are you working, or maybe a combination of both? What kind of environments do you work in, and what are their dress codes? What kind of recreational activities are you involved in? Do you frequent nightclubs or are you there just occasionally?  And so on. The answers to these questions will help form the framework of what you'll need in each situation. From there, you can build working wardrobes comprised of the key pieces, plus a few extras to add your own unique stamp.

There are great tools we can use to help us keep track of our likes and needs. Pinterest is a great one - you can create a board for any collection you're thinking of - I'm thinking work clothes, going-out clothes, casual wear, evening wear, you name it! While you're at it, why not start a board to pin your essentials - the workhorses that'll get you through any situation and which play happily with your fun finds. Track what you like and what you end up buying, and also track what you end up wearing the most - you'll start to see trends that will help you build your wardrobe so that it works for you, and not the other way around!

For me, my essentials are the following (here comes the list making, finally!):

I work in a 9-5 office setting, where the dress code is officially 'business casual,' which in reality can run the gamut in what is considered acceptable. I try to dress on the 'dressier' end of business casual - I don't need to wear a full suit to work every day, but I try to keep my look clean cut, simple, and pressed. This means tailored trousers or pants made with good, substantial material, pencil or A-line skirts (always at the knee or just above), and for tops - simple sweaters that fit well, or pretty tops paired with a cardigan or blazer.

For casual wear, I have more leeway to express my style, which actually doesn't veer too much from my work clothes in theme - again, I try to keep it simple and polished. My tops function for both work and casual settings, and I usually end up swapping out the trousers or skirts for great jeans. This means my clothes can often do double duty so they get more wear, which makes me feel good and that their purchase was justified!

Here is a list of my essential items:

1. Well-fitting pants

My favorites are slim-legged black trousers for work, and skinny leg black jeans for casual wear.

I'm currently on the hunt for slim/straight legged dark rinse jeans, and a pair of boyfriend-cut jeans that doesn't make me look stunted or sloppy :-P

2. Versatile silk tops

Silk feels amazing against your skin, is a great insulating layer in the winter, and instantly adds polish to your look. I find myself reaching most for my printed sleeveless tops, and my ivory Equipment and Rag & Bone blouses I scored off of eBay! I wear them on their own, or layered under a cardigan, blazer, or V-neck sweater, all year round.

Currently hunting for burgundy and navy silk blouses  :-)

3. Plain colored sweaters

I like them best in merino wool with a V-neck. My MVPs are my gray V-neck, and plain black sweaters, both round and V-necks. I can't get enough of them - layered on top of a collared blouse or printed top, underneath a blazer for warmth, on their own with jeans or printed pants. I probably wear a black sweater 1-2 times per week.

Also in this category are cardigans - a more relaxed version of blazers. I'm always reaching for my plain black and deep blue cardigans in colder weather, and my lightweight camel and mustard ones in warmer weather.

4. Blazers

I realize this sounds nebulous, and this is for a good reason. I can't just stick to one type of blazer - I love them and the crisp sharpness they add to any outfit :) Since the rest of my essentials are fairly basic, I can play more with my blazers. My favorites are my black and white tweed, my mustard wool-blend, my black menswear-inspired blazer that doubles as outerwear, and my gray wrinkle-resistant poly-blend that travels like a dream. My cream colored cotton blazer is great for the spring and summer. 

Looking for a deep olive-green wool blend, and a sharp black tuxedo to round out the collection. 

5. Great outerwear

It's the first garment that'll be noticed when worn, and makes the greatest impact. Blazers can multi-task as outerwear for mild weather, so that helps keep the actual coats and jackets needed to a minimum. I'm still working on getting my essentials down for this category. I've narrowed it to the following:

-Camel coat, double breasted and past the knees, with a belt and generous lapels. Still looking for this, maybe I'll get lucky with a Max Mara? We can hope!

-Tweed, single breasted, past the hip, cozy cocoon-ish shape. I'm anxiously awaiting my Madewell/Sézane collab I just scored for nearly 70% off - I'll do a post once I receive it!

-Leather jacket, black, moto-inspired - Sézane's Joplin is my ideal. Again, on the wish list to save for! Currently in my closet is a caramel Chloé - I got this on consignment for a steal, and can't wait to break it out from spring through fall. 

-Black down coat, hooded, past the knees - My current coat just reaches my knees, has a cozy pillow collar, and is something I can't live without on the coldest winter days. It's a keeper, and if I can get one with a hood and that reaches past my knees, that would be amazing. 

-Black wool coat, double breasted/trench style, past the knees - can't go wrong with this staple. On the hunt for this one!

-Lightweight military-inspired olive green jacket - My Elizabeth and James is not leaving my closet anytime soon :)

-Spring through fall trench - I found a great one by Vanessa Bruno with a pretty, slightly flared bottom. I'm looking forward to breaking it out again when it gets warmer!

6. Layering tees

White linen tees for spring and summer, black V and round necks all year round, slouchy navy and blush linen, and the softest olive green from Vince are my staples. The foundation for a myriad of outfits - always in heavy rotation.

7. Black tights

My favorites are from New York and Company. They have a great slimming effect at the tummy, are jet-black opaque, and the material is the best - satiny smooth, never snags, runs, or gets loose. They are like anchors - I can always count on them under skirts and dress, and add extra warmth under pants. I make a point to pick up a pair or two whenever I'm at the Gallery in Philly. 

Fleece-lined tights are the best in the winter, too. So cozy, soft, and warm!

8. Scarves

On constant rotation are my leopard print, my orange floral, and my navy Alexander McQueen. Scarves can multi-task like no other accessory, use them often to add punch to pretty much any outfit :)

I had a lot of fun making this list, and hope it was helpful for anyone who's looking to clean up their closet (hello, spring cleaning! Just around the corner), loves clothes, and/or loves lists too. I'll be sure to share my thoughts on the Madewell tweed coat once it arrives home. I'd also like to do a post on shoe staples to help with cutting down clutter and making sure your purchases actually get used, so please stay tuned for more!

Hello again! I am happy to share some exciting news which I had sneakily mentioned a couple of posts ago. I will be starting a new job at the end of the month, and also moving into a new apartment. It will be amazing to have a real kitchen again, and I am very much looking forward to my new job!

In the midst of job and apartment hunting, interviewing, etc, I managed to snag a few great finds. Madewell.com was having a great promotion last week, with an extra 30% off sale prices, and free shipping over $50. When Madewell does these promotions, I pay attention. I love their stuff, and have gotten some great deals during previous promotions over the past couple of years. A pair of their nude patent leather flats, a great belt, a thick cozy scarf, and a linen striped tee, and all of these items I've been wearing to death.

This time, I was craving neon. I found it, in the form of these gorgeous items:

Madewell silk-front tank in sungarden

Photo courtesy of madewell.com

The silk front is done in a beautiful vintage photo-inspired floral print, and the back is a soft and silky rayon in bright yellow. I received this a few days ago and am absolutely in love. Today I'm wearing it to work with a white cotton blazer, khaki trousers, and my trusty nude flats. I kept accessories simple with a few favorite gold pieces - a botanical-inspired ring, a slim Art-Deco-ish bracelet from the LOFT, and a tiny opal pendant. I have some gray skinnies and a navy blue cardigan, plus bright pink flats, that I can also see this getting along with just fine. Definitely worth it for $25, and a testament to how versatile a good floral print can be.

Madewell neon pencil skirt

 Photo courtesy of madewell.com

The photo shown here is in the Palace Pink option, which is what was on the website. I went for the Luminary Citron. Check out the color swatch on the website - it is a gorgeous electric yellow/lemon color. I was so excited when I saw this - just what I've been looking for, and in beautiful silk too. I worked with a wonderful customer service associate, using the online chat option, to find the correct size. She was very helpful and was able to give me exact measurements for a couple of size options I was considering. Even though they were final sale and not eligible for return, she was able to put in a note for me that would allow me to return the skirt if it ended up not fitting.

As it turned out, the size I chose didn't work for me - it was a smidge too tight, and since it was silk, I wanted it to flow better so lines and bulges would be skimmed over and not accentuated. Working with another one of their great customer service associates on the phone, I was able to exchange my skirt for the next size up, free of charge. I also picked up a belt while I was at it - I have been looking for a wider belt to cinch dresses and tunics/cardigans with, and the color was just what I wanted. Since I called while the extra 30% off promotion was still running, I got the belt at a great price, too. I can't wait to share the verdict when I get the skirt and belt, and to continue incorporating bright pops of color into my wardrobe.

And I would be remiss if I didn't give praise and tell you how pleasant it was to work with Madewell's customer service for this seemingly convoluted set of transactions. When shopping online, it is very important for me to be able to talk to someone who knows the product, has it in front of them, and is able to give you information beyond what's posted online to help you make your decision. This helps you save time and money, so you'll be able to confidently say yes or no to pieces you are considering. Plus, they were so nice to chat with and did everything they could to help me.  As a disclaimer, I'm not getting anything from Madewell (or any of the other merchants I've written about here) to write my opinion; this is just me sharing my opinion in hopes that it will benefit you down the road.  I'm not afraid to pick up the phone and get in contact with customer service with questions about my orders from any merchant, and more than once I've experienced poor customer service. It's a tough job to be sure, so if any of you are working in this field, please do not take it as an offense. It just makes it that much more notable when someone really comes through, and so I wanted to praise these ladies and share my positive experience with you guys. In short - Madewell's stuff rocks, their customer service rocks, and Thursdays rock because it's almost Friday! (Wait, what? Non sequitur, anyone? But it's all true! :)

YSL Arty-Inspired

Ah, the Yves Saint Laurent Arty ring. A fashion-insider/blogger/editor favorite since 2010, which is when I believe they first came out (though please correct me if I'm wrong!), I've been eyeing these little beauties since I got into fashion blogging. They seemed to be everywhere, worn with a multitude of differently styled outfits, which to me seemed like a great testament to their versatility.

Now before I go on blathering about it, let me just say that the ring I'm wearing today is not, in fact, the 'real' Arty ring, but rather, a pretty good dupe which I found on eBay for $17.

Normally, I don't advocate buying fakes or replicas of designer items. I think you have to examine the whole philosophy and intent behind the purchases you want to make, and this is especially important for spending money on luxury goods.

I've never really been into my personal style until a few years ago, though I've always enjoyed fashion as a visual art form. Since I love to draw and color, I appreciate the creativity and artistic expression that fashion design allows. Clothes and accessories can tell a story, create a whole new persona, make one feel more confident, and in general, when done right, can do many great things for a person.

It can also come at a high cost, whether you pursue luxury goods or not. Think about it. You can spend x amount of dollars per year on 'fast fashion,' pieces which aren't built to last and will necessitate replacement after a very short lifetime. Watch those dollars add up. Or you can blow a whole paycheck on a designer bag, shoes, etc, and if you're lucky enough to have more pocket change rattling around, you can buy even more luxury goods.

But let's step back and think a little more deeply about why we are consuming these goods. Are we doing it simply to follow a trend? Or we are trying to find pieces that truly reflect who we are, that add that special 'oomph' to our tried and true looks?

I think luxury has become diluted, as manufacturers and copiers become more tech-savvy to better replicate the real item, and as design houses move to save money by compromising on quality. I also personally think one shouldn't buy luxury goods for the purpose of 'showing off.' How much style will that LV monogram tote really add to your look? Status does not necessarily equate style. You can wear a Forever 21 piece in a way that makes your entire look seem put together and polished, or you can also totally destroy the aesthetic of a gorgeous designer top by what it is paired with.

To me, luxury is something that represents an ideal and something better to remind ourselves to always improve. I like the idea that it is always just a bit (or more!) out of reach. If it were always easily attainable, I think it loses its luster and meaning. Personally, I'm all about making my own way in the world. To me, there is something nice about the idea of working hard and accomplishing your goals, and as a bonus, being able to reward yourself with a beautiful bag or pair of fantastic shoes. It's a reminder of how far you've come, and also how much more you have to go, always improving and moving forward on your journey. When I finally buy that Chloe Paraty, or Chanel 2.55, I want to be able to pay for it in full, knowing that I've crossed one finish line and that this was just the cherry on top of a good, productive, successful year, rather than going into debt or being totally irresponsible about my money just to acquire what is essentially one more item.

I'm all about purchasing quality over quantity. I'll be up front and tell you that as a health care researcher, I'm not exactly bringing the big bucks home at the end of the day! I am also very careful with how I budget and spend my 'allowance' once necessities like rent, food, loan repayments, etc, are taken care of. I want my dollar to go as far possible and to get as much use out of my money as possible, especially if it's going to be spent on non-essentials. So fast, cheap fashion, which has never really appealed to me anyway, is definitely out. What's in, and what hopefully my closet reflects, is my love for beautiful pieces well-constructed with quality material, from which I will get a lot of use.

But wait, you say, doesn't that cost more money? It certainly can, but here's the thing - it doesn't have to!  This is where my love for bargain hunting helps tremendously. Give me a good consignment or vintage store with thoughtfully chosen pieces anyday, or an eBay store stocked with treasures. When I'm set on acquiring a piece, whether it be a good cashmere sweater, silk blouse, or designer fashion jewelry like the aforementioned YSL Arty, I become a hunter. I'll stalk eBay and consignment for barely worn, gorgeous pieces that I know I'll be wearing for years to come. I'll take good care of my clothes, so as to not totally destroy them with terrible machine-drying and excessive dry-cleaning, and make sure my shoes are well taken care of so the leather stays supple and soft. When it comes to what I consider really big ticket items - the aforementioned bags, for example - I have them on a 5 and 10 year plan of saving. This wait period also ensures that I truly want and will use the bag, rather than just letting it sit around like a trophy piece.

So finally, we come to the YSL-inspired ring I've recently acquired. Although I've admired the authentic ring for a while on other people, I am not ready to pull the trigger on nearly $300 for a piece of jewelry made with base metal and not-precious stones. At least, not yet. Maybe in the future, I'll save it as a very special present to myself. However, I also love the look of this ring. The large oval stone that comes in a variety of gorgeous colors, the sculptural and yet almost-lacy setting, the duality of strength and romanticism that the design conveys - I love it all. So I'm essentially trying before I buy. This baby cost me a fraction of what the authentic piece would have been. I'm going to be wearing this every which way I can, so I can get used to the heft and the look. Hey, I could have received it and hated it, and said to myself 'nope, this isn't for me.' I'd much rather do that with a cheapie! And if I do buy the real thing, I'll have options, so if I know the good piece might get beaten up, I'll wear my backup for that particular occasion.

Here are some photos, the first is my own ring, the second is a shot of an actual YSL Arty.

My eBay Arty ;)

 My photo - sorry for the phone photo quality!

My ring design was inspired by the real YSL Arty in Marine

Photo from net-a-porter.com

Mine isn't bad, right? Obviously, the real ring's metal has a more yellowish tone, and the turquoise pops more vividly against the lapis, etc. I can appreciate the merits of both. Who knows, maybe one day the real thing will join my costume jewelry arsenal. For now, I'm liking what I have - it's becoming a mainstay, and for $17, that's not bad :)

Guys, this is the first time I've written what is essentially an opinion piece for mass consumption, so I would love to hear your thoughts and comments! I'm also writing and posting this as practice for getting back into writing more, so please take that into consideration when crafting your comments and feedback. I'm sure there are plenty of little inconsistencies in my 'arguments,' and perhaps my logic is not always clear, but I hope in general, it's given you an idea of my approach/philosophy to clothes shopping! 

Hi everyone! Well, it's been a while since I posted, and I am sorry for the lack of activity here. It's been a flurry of activity off-blog, and I think things are finally starting to settle down a bit. I will be glad to share the news with you once I know for certain what's happening next!

In the meantime, remember these sandals from this post? I did receive them a few days after that post, and am sorry to report that they didn't end up working out after all.

First, the size 8 was too big; despite the reviews, I could have stuck with the 7.5 had they not been sold out online (but wait, you say! You can check in-stores too. That's coming right up :).

Second, the little silver buckle part that goes through the buckle holes (very technical language here!) on the left sandal fell off when I took the shoes out of the box! You can imagine my jaws dropping to the floor, almost literally, as I got down on my knees to search for the teeny little buckle piece. I was able to reattach it, but clearly these shoes weren't meant for me.

I took them back to the store, and searched for a replacement 7.5, but no luck, alas. It's such a versatile color and style, so I wasn't surprised to see that these brown sandals were the most purchased, judging by the merchandise left on the shelves.

So I returned these shoes, and the hunt continues for that perfect gladiator-inspired, neutral brown, low-heel strappy sandal! Just saw these beauties from Anh this morning, and am seriously considering the splurge.

J. Crew Alie Gladiator Sandals, in English Saddle

25% off, with code SPRINGBEST, and free shipping, so they'll be $112.50.

Should I do it? I have until the end of today when the code expires. Still plenty of time to put it aside, think about it, and revisit in the evening :)

I am typing this and shaking my head in disbelief that it's April!

With a quarter of the year officially behind us, here's hoping that everyone had a great start, and here's to making the rest of the year even better.

It's also April Fool's Day, isn't it? If you are so inclined, may your pranks be worthy, funny, and safe :)

These deals from Ann Taylor LOFT are no joke, though! (I bet you saw that coming, didn't you? :)
Take 50% off EVERYTHING, including sale/clearance items, AND get free shipping with any order, with code CYBERSPRING. This promotions ends tonight at 11:59pm though, and items tend to sell out quickly during these kinds of sales, so get them while you can!

Neon Sequin Clutch

I'm loving this cheery and shiny little clutch. It's a perfect way to add a bit of flair to daytime and going-out looks. This color is unexpectedly versatile. I have a leather tote in this color that I snagged a few years ago (majorly on sale from Calvin Klein!), and it's perfect to brighten up work outfits based mostly on neutrals. This little darling would be great with a white or chambray button up blouse, striped skirt, and neutral colored pumps or flats. At about $12.50 with the promotional code, it's a very accessible way to add some color to your wardrobe.

Vaughn T-Strap Sandals

 

These T-Strap sandals are a classic for spring and summer. I've actually been looking for sandals in this style for a while now. I would wear this every chance I get, especially when the hot and humid Philadelphia summer hits. Already I can see them with skirts, shorts, capris, dresses. From the reviews on the product page, it seems to run a bit narrow. As I'm writing this, I caved in and bought the size 8 in brown, half a size up from my normal 7.5. $14.75 total with the promo code (remember, shipping's free on any order, no minimum purchase). I can't wait to share a review with you once I get these!

These deals seem too good to be true, but rest assured they are bonafide ;) 

Happy Monday!

Saturday's here!

Well, not the day Saturday, at least, not quite yet.

I'm talking about Kate Spade's little sister line, Kate Spade Saturday, just launched today. Brick-and-mortar stores are currently just in Japan, but it seems like other locations will be opening soon as well.

Until we get some of those stores States-side, we can 'window-shop' online to our hearts' content. Kate Spade Saturday offers relaxed, fun, and chic styles, playing off the love for colors and graphics that is the hallmark of its big sister line. There are clothes, accessories, and home goods. The price point is also a bit friendlier, though from habit, I'd still wait for a good sale. :)

Here are some finds that caught my eye (all images from Kate Spade Saturday online, at www.saturday.com):

Shirttail Tank in Signature Zig Zag

 I love the bold, pieced-together stripes here. They are flattering for the figure and provide a great 'pop' - on its own, under a blazer or cardigan, or layered with another tee. It's 100% cotton that looks substantial. At $30, not a bad price at all for a great statement piece that can be worn year round.

Half-Circle Scarf in Abstract

 

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's...a half-circle scarf! The print here is beautiful, and I bet it's sneakily versatile in ways we wouldn't normally expect. It can be a scarf, tied many ways due to its size - 33 inches (height at center) by 64 inches (width). It can also serve as a wrap/sarong for beach days, and I bet you can wrap and tie this baby around yourself as a halter top. Ah, the possibilities. 100% cotton for $60 does seem a little steep to me though, so I'd probably wait for a sale to snatch this one up. 

Half-Circle Stacking Mugs

 

These are just adorable -  a set of 4 stackable mugs, in stoneware, that are microwave and dishwasher safe, and go with just about everything while adding a fun touch. They are 3 inches by 3 inches, and $30 for the set. If you're in need of mugs, these may be a good addition to your cupboards and table/desk/wherever!

In short, I'm a fan of Saturday. Both the day itself and this line :)

For anyone who is looking to spruce up your wardrobe for spring, here's a tip - check out your local JCPenney. This longtime mall mainstay has been steadily updating and improving their clothing choices. A recent perusal of the website had me impressed by the offerings: with lines from the likes of Marchesa's Georgina Chapman, Nicole Miller, Mango, and most recently Canadian import Joe Fresh and Nigerian-born/London-raised Duro Olowu, there is something for every style, at budget-friendly prices.
 
Here are my top 5 picks (all images from jcpenney.com):

Joe Fresh Lace Pencil Skirt 

This is a beautiful cotton skirt, with a cotton/elastane lining, that perfectly combines romantic bohemian vibes and modern functionality. Also comes in black. At $49, it is a reasonable price for the lovely and on-trend detailing. I'll have to assess it in-person to see whether it merits buying at full price, or waiting for a sale/coupon offer. I imagine this could be worn for spring, summer, and well into fall with tights, booties, and layering a cropped sweater over a buttondown shirt. Substitute with simple top and blazer for work! So many options for this piece.

Pearl Georgina Chapman of Marchesa Floral Appliqué Dress

 

Marchesa is known and loved for its glamorous, ornate, and showstopping designs. This polyester dress embodies this spirit and brings it to us for a cool $70. Consider this for your next party, or perhaps if you're looking for prom dresses, look no further. With an elegant updo, fabulous bracelets and earrings, heels and a little sparkly clutch, this will make getting dressed up a breeze.

 Pearl Georgina Chapman of Marchesa Floral Lace Skinny Pants 

Going out, but in the mood for something a little .. darker? Victorian-inspired, perhaps, and a little bit edgier than pastel pink and ruffles? Try these skinny pants, with a bold watercolor-floral print, and lace overlay, and let them do all the talking. A pale-colored sequined top, light-colored blazer (preferably in the same color family as the top), nude pumps, and gunmetal jewelry says springtime with a more glam and chic twist. 

 Worthington Ponte Circles Skirt 

This fun skirt, in a polyester/rayon/spandex blend, would be great for work all through three seasons - spring, summer, fall.  Plus, it's on sale for $17. Reminds me a little bit of some DVF and Marni designs. The cheery colors and print will pair well with a variety of tops and shoes. Try a white button down top, wide tan-colored belt, and a brightly colored pair of pumps or flats for the office (I'm thinking poppy red or fuschia, or jade green). On the weekends, wear it with a loose fitting gray, white, or black tee on top, and comfy flip flops or gladiators on the bottom. A nice chunky statement necklace or bracelet to play off the circle pattern? Yes please.

 Duro Olowu for jcp Ruffle Front Blouse  

Sorry for the tiny picture! The website itself should have a better photo. Emerald green is officially the Pantone color of the year for 2013. The vibrant hue is fresh and versatile. Use this $30 polyester top as a base for your blazers and cardigans, or wear it alone with jeans, pencil skirts, shorts, etc. The bright color and ladylike ruffles will keep you stylish no matter what.  

 

There are plenty more to be seen where these came from! I enjoyed sharing these with you, and hope you'll find a great new addition (or maybe two, who knows!) to your wardrobe! I'm looking forward to my next mall trip to check out these finds in person. I will share my findings if I do. For those of you who have seen these in person, what do you think of their quality and versatility, and what else would you recommend from JCPenney? Please share in the comments section below. Happy shopping!

My interest in fashion and style has much to do with the fact that I've been drawing, doodling, and coloring since I was a small girl, and evolved alongside my discovering the potential of illustration for self-expression.

I can pinpoint for you the exact moment when I became fascinated with creating images by hand. One of my uncles, who is extremely talented, had just finished drawing for me one of my favorite Chinese cartoon characters - Hei Mao Jin Zhang, or 'Black Cat Detective.' I wish I still had it so I can show you. For little 3 or 4 year old me, it was pretty much the best thing ever, to see how quickly and deftly my uncle created that image, with nothing but pencil, paper, and of course his talent. I was hooked, and still draw as much as I can today. (I also credit my uncle with inspiring me to learn how to whistle tunes, but that's another story for another post!)

It's a wonderful hobby for me to delve into, each time discovering something new in terms of technique and aesthetic. I tried out different kinds of drawings, from still life/portraits, landscapes, cartoons, even fashion figures when I went through my 'I want to become a fashion designer!' phase in middle school. Now that was a lot of fun. I loved playing with shapes, colors, and textures and learning how they can accentuate and tell a story in women's wear (and men's, though for many reasons, I'm better versed in women's fashion :)

Then came my more recent era of obsession with fashion blogs. This goes without saying, but there are so many incredible fashion blogs out there, driven by talent and hard work and the desire to push boundaries. It's a sensory feast for me to pore over the outfits and looks that people create. It's endless inspiration, and I want to take part in this exciting melting pot and share my own style journey.

I am excited to share outfit posts, style inspirations, and perhaps even some illustrations on this page. For now, I leave you with my Pinterest board on style - hope you can check it out, and enjoy!

Thank you for reading! 

http://pinterest.com/galaxia257/in-pursuit-of-simplicity-elegance-beauty/